Custer County Sd Gis Travel Guide
Explore the Best of Custer County SD GIS
Custer County, located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, is a popular destination for nature lovers, history buffs, and adventure seekers. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and unique culture, this county has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or a relaxing getaway, Custer County is the perfect destination for you.
Top Attractions
Custer County is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. The most popular attractions include Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Crazy Horse Memorial, Jewel Cave National Monument, and Wind Cave National Park. These attractions offer visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Black Hills, learn about the history of the region, and experience the unique culture of the Lakota people.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Custer County has plenty of hidden gems to explore. The Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail that runs through the heart of the Black Hills, is a popular destination for hikers and bikers. The Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, located on 11,000 acres of pristine grasslands, is a must-visit for animal lovers. And the Cosmos Mystery Area, a gravity-defying attraction that will leave you scratching your head, is a fun and unique experience for the whole family.
Food Scene
Custer County is known for its hearty Midwestern cuisine, with plenty of options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike. The Black Hills Burger and Bun Co., voted the best burger joint in South Dakota, is a must-visit for anyone looking for a delicious meal. For something a little more upscale, try the Custer Wolf, a cozy restaurant serving up creative dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Custer County is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. There are plenty of free or cheap activities to enjoy, such as hiking the Mickelson Trail, exploring the historic downtown area of Custer, and visiting local museums. To save money on accommodations, consider camping at one of the many campgrounds in the area or booking a room at a budget-friendly motel.
Outdoor Adventures
With its stunning landscapes and wide variety of outdoor activities, Custer County is a paradise for adventure seekers. From hiking and biking to rock climbing and kayaking, there’s something for everyone. The Black Hills National Forest is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with miles of trails to explore and plenty of wildlife to spot. And for those looking for a thrill, try zip lining at Rushmore Tramway Adventures or rock climbing at Sylvan Lake.
Historical Landmarks
Custer County has a rich history, dating back to the days of the Wild West. The most famous historical landmark in the area is Mount Rushmore, a tribute to four of America’s greatest presidents. Other must-visit historical landmarks include the Crazy Horse Memorial, the Black Hills Mining Museum, and the 1880 Train, a historic steam train that takes visitors through the heart of the Black Hills.
Family-Friendly Activities
Custer County is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. The Black Hills Maze, a giant outdoor maze, is a fun and challenging experience for all ages. The Mammoth Site, a paleontological dig site and museum, is a must-visit for dinosaur lovers. And the Reptile Gardens, home to over 200 species of reptiles, is a unique and educational experience for the whole family.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something truly unique, Custer County has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The Chapel in the Hills, a replica of an 800-year-old Norwegian stave church, is a stunning architectural marvel. The Black Hills Playhouse, a professional theater company located in the heart of the Black Hills, offers a variety of performances throughout the summer months. And the Black Hills Institute of Geological Research, a museum dedicated to the study of fossils and natural history, is a fascinating and educational experience for all ages.
Natural Wonders
Custer County is home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the United States. The Badlands National Park, a unique landscape of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and spires, is a must-visit for nature lovers. The Needles Highway, a scenic drive through a narrow, winding canyon, offers stunning views of the Black Hills. And the Sylvan Lake, a crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by towering granite peaks, is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and hiking.
Vibrant Nightlife
Custer County may be known for its natural beauty, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. The Buffalo Ridge Theater, located in downtown Custer, offers a variety of live music performances throughout the year. The Firehouse Brewing Company, a historic brewery located in Rapid City, serves up delicious craft beers and pub fare. And the Deadwood Mountain Grand, a casino and resort located in the heart of the Black Hills, offers a variety of entertainment options, including live music, comedy shows, and more.
Local Markets
Custer County is home to a variety of local markets, offering everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Custer Farmers Market, held every Saturday during the summer months, is a great place to find locally grown fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade jams, jellies, and baked goods. The Hill City Farmers Market, held every Friday during the summer months, offers a variety of locally made crafts and artisanal products.
Beaches and Mountains
With its stunning landscapes and wide variety of outdoor activities, Custer County is the perfect destination for beach and mountain lovers alike. The Black Hills are home to some of the most beautiful mountain scenery in the United States, with miles of hiking and biking trails to explore. And for those looking for a beach vacation, the Sylvan Lake and Pactola Lake offer crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Cultural Immersion
Custer County is home to a unique culture, blending the traditions of the Lakota people with the history of the Wild West. The Lakota Sioux Indian Museum, located in Rapid City, offers a fascinating insight into the culture and history of the Lakota people. The Black Hills Powwow, held every August in Rapid City, is a celebration of Native American culture, featuring traditional dance, music, and food. And the Black Hills Roundup Rodeo, held every July in Belle Fourche, is a tribute to the Wild West, featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and other rodeo events.
Art and Music Scene
Custer County is home to a thriving art and music scene, with plenty of galleries and performance venues to explore. The Dahl Arts Center, located in Rapid City, showcases the work of local and national artists, with rotating exhibits throughout the year. The Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, based in Rapid City, offers a variety of classical music performances throughout the year. And the Black Hills Bluegrass Festival, held every June in Sturgis, is a celebration of bluegrass music, featuring live performances and workshops.
Walking Tours
Custer County is a great destination for walking tours, offering a chance to explore the historic downtown areas of Custer and Rapid City, as well as the natural beauty of the Black Hills. The Historic District of Custer, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a glimpse into the history of the Wild West, with historic buildings and landmarks to explore. The Rapid City Art Alley, a colorful alleyway filled with street art and murals, is a fun and unique experience for art lovers.
Architectural Marvels
Custer County is home to a variety of architectural marvels, from historic buildings to modern masterpieces. The Stavkirke Chapel in the Hills, a replica of an 800-year-old Norwegian stave church, is a stunning example of traditional Scandinavian architecture. The Black Hills Playhouse, a historic theater located in the heart of the Black Hills, is a beautiful example of Art Deco architecture. And the Chapel at the Mountain View Cemetery, a unique and beautiful chapel located in Rapid City, is a popular destination for weddings and other events.
Historical Sites
With its rich history dating back to the days of the Wild West, Custer County is home to a variety of historical sites to explore. The Deadwood Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, offers a glimpse into the history of the Gold Rush era, with historic buildings and landmarks to explore. The Fort Meade Museum, located on the grounds of the former Fort Meade military base, offers a fascinating insight into the history of the United States military. And the Black Hills Central Railroad, a historic steam train that takes visitors through the heart of the Black Hills, is a must-visit for history buffs.
Biking Routes
Custer County is a popular destination for bikers, with miles of scenic bike routes to explore. The Mickelson Trail, a 109-mile rail trail that runs through the heart of the Black Hills, is a